Panadol (Paracetamol)

Panadol is an analgesic and antipyretic that acts on common pain‑related pathways and fever mechanisms.

• Headache: provides relief from tension‑type and migraine‑associated pain.
• Fever: lowers elevated body temperature in infectious or inflammatory states.
• Musculoskeletal pain: eases aches from back strain, sprains and minor arthritis.
• Dental pain: reduces discomfort following dental procedures or toothache.
• Menstrual discomfort: alleviates cramps and associated lower‑abdominal pain.

• Paracetamol reduces pain and fever by inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes in the central nervous system, which lowers prostaglandin synthesis. It also modulates serotonergic pathways that influence pain perception, providing antipyretic effects through action on the hypothalamic heat‑regulation centre.

Paracetamol is generally well tolerated, but adverse reactions can occur.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: mild stomach upset may be reported.
• Skin rash: occasional mild erythema or itching.
• Elevated liver enzymes: transient increase detected in blood tests.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome: severe skin blistering and mucosal involvement.
• Toxic hepatitis: liver injury presenting with jaundice and abdominal pain.
• Anaphylaxis: rapid onset of breathing difficulty, swelling and hypotension.
• Blood disorders: agranulocytosis or thrombocytopenia in rare cases.

When using Panadol, consider the following safety measures:

• Dose limitation: do not exceed the maximum daily amount recommended by a healthcare professional.
• Liver health: avoid use in patients with severe hepatic impairment or active liver disease.
• Alcohol consumption: limit intake as concurrent alcohol use can increase liver toxicity risk.
• Drug interactions: review all concurrent medications with a pharmacist or physician.
• Pregnancy and lactation: use only if clearly indicated and prescribed by a qualified healthcare provider.
• Store below 25°C: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Paracetamol may interact with several medicines; monitoring is advised.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Warfarin: may enhance anticoagulant effect and increase bleeding risk.
• Disulfiram: can cause heightened sensitivity to alcohol and hepatic stress.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Isoniazid: combined use may raise risk of liver enzyme elevation.
• Carbamazepine: may reduce paracetamol plasma levels, lowering efficacy.
• Antiepileptic drugs: some may alter metabolism, requiring dose adjustment.
• Oral contraceptives: may slightly increase paracetamol clearance.
• Rifampicin: accelerates metabolism, potentially decreasing analgesic effect.